RTC Taking Steps To Coordinate Between Metros And Buses

Hyderabd : The Last-mile connectivity programme has once again come into the limelight as RTC launches latest passenger tracking system to drive buses to Metro train, for the ease of metro passengers to reach their destination comfortably. According to this programme, buses will operate in coordination with the Metro Train at major metro stations. RTC which has already launched such buses from the Hi-tech City Station has now taken steps to expand into more regions.

Approximately 400–500 passengers are currently traveling on Metro trains in the hi-tech metro station route. The vast majority of them find their way into the IT corridor, such as Wave Rock, LemonTree, Amazon, and Mind space. Changes have been made in the management of buses accordingly. There are currently 393 buses moving across various parts of the IT corridor every day, and an additional 30 buses have been added a few days ago, to address the crowds. RTC Greater Hyderabad Executive Director Venkateshwar said that buses are moving 3,796 trips a day in all Hi-tech hub areas.

According to the reports, RTC Buses has been running in loss after the launch of the Metro Rail in two major routes. Initially, RTC did not have much impact from Metro trains running In Uppal to Ameerpet route, but RTC's popularity has declined after hi-tech metro services began. RTC AC Buses had a huge Impact due to metro trains running between Ameerpet and Hi-tech city, LB Nagar - Miyapur. RTC ED mentioned that metro corridors are running on losses of Rs 7 per kilometer. One route of the two major metro corridors generates an income of Rs.28 against a cost of Rs.35, and Hundreds of buses have suffered serious losses.

From the Recent analysis, RTC officials have made it clear that there are 3,550 buses running for about 9.15 lakh kilometers, at loss of 1.5 crores. The buses are earning Rs. 42 per km at a cost of 58. That means a loss of Rs 16 per kilometer. Officials believe that they can get rid of these loses only by getting passengers’ feedback.

RTC ED Venkateshwar said, "We will take immediate action to address the complaints of commuters. For this purpose, we display the phone numbers of depot managers on the buses". Passengers waiting for buses can contact Depot Managers and Divisional Managers if they find themselves in a problem, to have it resolved.